Michigan Prisons To Accept Visitors for the First Time in Over a Year

Starting March 26, visitors will be allowed at Michigan prisons. The move comes as more prisoners and members of the public become vaccinated.

white barred prison cells

Starting March 26, visitors will be allowed at Michigan prisons for the first time in more than a year.

Chris Gautz, a spokesperson for the Michigan Department of Corrections, says increased vaccination rates led to the decision to re-allow visitors.

“As we’ve seen, more and more prisoners and staff (have) become vaccinated,” said Gautz. “More members of the public (have) become vaccinated, (and we’re) seeing our numbers around the state in general trending in a good downward projection. It felt that now with time.”

Gautz says visitors will need to test negative for the virus at the prison. Plexiglass barriers and other safety precautions will be put in place as well.

Half of those incarcerated will be vaccinated by the time the visits resume, according to Gautz. To date, 25% of inmates have been vaccinated.

Trusted, accurate, up-to-date

WDET is here to keep you informed on essential information, news and resources related to COVID-19.

This is a stressful, insecure time for many. So it’s more important than ever for you, our listeners and readers, who are able to donate to keep supporting WDET’s mission. Please make a gift today.

Donate today »

Author

  • Russ McNamara
    Russ McNamara is the host of All Things Considered for 101.9 WDET, presenting local news to the station’s loyal listeners. He's been an avid listener of WDET since he moved to metro Detroit in 2002.